What is a Mouse?

A mouse is a pointing device used with a computer. Moving the mouse moves the cursor on the screen, and its buttons let you click and select items.

A Short History

The first computer mouse was invented by Douglas Engelbart in the 1960s. It was a wooden block with two metal wheels, which is why it was nicknamed the "mouse".

Main Parts

• Left button: Used to select and open items.
• Right button: Opens a context menu.
• Scroll wheel: Scrolls pages up and down.
• Sensor: Tracks movement on a surface.

Types of Mice

• Wired mouse: Connects with a USB cable.
• Wireless mouse: Uses Bluetooth or a USB receiver.
• Optical mouse: Uses light to track movement.
• Laser mouse: More precise, works on more surfaces.

Why It Matters

The mouse makes computers easy to use. Together with the keyboard, it is one of the two most important input devices.